Synthesizers

Synthesizers are powerful tools for both live and studio productions. A synthesizer is usually at the heart of any music producers studio. They give a unique creative outlet for writing melodies, chords or adding unique sounds to a track.

Analog Synths are the preferred choice of many producers, due to their warm and characterful vintage sound. If you are looking for more control parameters than an a traditional analog synth, the Digital Synths like the Novation Peak provides a range of extra sound manipulation tools and effects. If space and budget are an issue, many Software Synths offer much of the same functionality as hardware synths for a fraction of the price.

Related Synth & Module Gear

Synth Information

Synths fall in to many categories. Workstations and arrangers are capable of allowing a musician to create an original, finished piece of music. Workstations build tracks up in a linear way using a sequencer and so do some arrangers, but they also use intros, fills, variations and endings to build the piece in different parts. Workstations feature onboard arpeggios and loops, while arrangers have onboard styles. The latter type of pro keyboard is preferred by many musicians for playing live, but this does not necessarily mean it is always the best option.

Workstations are often viewed as being the best for original music performance, with a larger palette for creating sounds, easy programming and the ability to use commercial MIDI files for covering songs. Pre-prepared MIDI files can also enable musicians to create a full band effect when playing.

Meanwhile, arrangers are looked on as highly professional instruments, with some people considering them to be the equivalent of a band in a box. The style function assists those struggling with time constraints to get results quickly, while the instruments are designed to sound as if they are being played in the live environment. Arrangers can also act as learning tools, exposing and giving insight into different genres of music.

Synth News

Just as The NAMM Show 2019 was beginning to unwind, Behringer surprised us with a new product! The Behringer Crave is a new semi-modular analog synthesizer with a highly accessible price-tag....
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The Sonogenic SHS 500 is a new keytar from Yamaha. With a super easy-to-use design and app connectivity, the SHS 500 is the perfect instrument for "music lovers who want to participate in making music, but haven't yet learned how."...
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Teenage Engineering launches three affordable Modular Pocket Operator synthesizers for 2019. With 3 pre-configured chassis and 15 sound modules, it's "never been easier to get started with modular music making."...
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